Measuring

1. Make sure you are wearing your typical walking shoes
2. Stand in a natural position with your hands relaxed to your side.
3. With a yardstick or tape measure, have someone measure the distance from your wrist to the floor and round to the nearest half inch.
4. When sized properly, the handle of the cane should meet the crease of your wrist.

Note*: Most any hardware store or home health store will shorten your cane for free or a small fee. We do not currently cut or shorten canes at Pro Med Warehouse. However, if the cane has been shortened or modified, we cannot accept it as a return.

Walking With a Cane

Proper use of your cane is the most important step you can take to improve your mobility. Before you begin walking with your new cane, be sure that it has been sized correctly (holding the cane at your side, there should be a slight bend at your elbow, and your arm should feel comfortable and natural), and that it is sufficiently supportive. The cane should be held on the opposite side of your injured or affected leg, regardless of your dominant hand. For example, if your injury is on your left leg you should carry the cane in your right hand in order to properly distribute your weight. First, you should step forward with your injured leg and the cane together, then with your weight on both the cane and the injured leg step forward with your uninjured leg.

Of course if you walk with a cane simply for stability and balance, you can hold the cane in whichever hand you prefer, but you should still step forward with the opposite leg in sync with your cane hand.

Almost all of our canes will support up to 250 lbs. Certain styles will support up to 500 lbs if noted. If you rely on your cane for constant support, we recommend you use a one-piece cane, as they are typically sturdier than a two-piece cane.

Choosing a Handle

When shopping for a cane, many people may feel lost when selecting a handle. "What handle is the best?" is the common question. While choosing the right handle is sometimes a simple matter of taste, it may often be a matter of necessity.

Crook

The Crook handle, or Tourist, is the most widely known and recognized handle available. Due to its shape, however, its center of balance is a bit different from other canes. Therefore, we recommend this style handle for more casual cane users who do not require constant support, and appreciate its simple and classic style.

Derby

The most popular handle available, the Derby is preferred by both men and women more than any other handle. The shape offers a greater sense of balance, because it centers the user's weight over the shaft. This handle can be used for any condition, from mild to severe.

Fritz

The Fritz handle was created by a German Count in the 16^th century, and specifically designed with the arthritic user in mind. Its shape allows a more ergonomic grip and helps relieve pressure on the hands.

Anatomically Correct and Palm Grip

Many long-time cane users have come to prefer the glove-like fit of an

anatomically correct handle. Like the Fritz, it is designed to relieve pressure and increase stability for a long term cane user. Because these handles are shaped to fit either the right or left hand, remember when making your selection that it should be carried opposite your injury.

Knob

Simple and classy, the Knob handle is perfect for those needing minimal support.

There are variations of these styles, in addition to alternative materials available. Choosing the right handle is usually as simple as knowing your own strengths, weaknesses and preferences, but can sometimes be an elusive decision. Please remember that we are here to help, and more than happy to assist you in any way we can.